Fall Planted Bulbs

Atlanta has finally gotten a substantial rain these past few days, with more in this week's forecast.
A rainy day makes for good Garden planning.
The time for planting fall bulbs is soon upon us. Begin planting AFTER the flower beds have been cleaned / weeded. (Many plants that have gone to seed will provide food for birds, so do not eliminate all seed heads. They may not aesthetically resonate for you, but the birds will.)
Fall-planted bulbs spend the winter making roots and come up early in the spring.. In Atlanta's typical clay soil, plant one inch shallower than directed by commercially packaged bulbs. Firm the soil with your hand to eliminate air spaces. Most hardy bulbs are not dug in the fall but most should be mulched in colder climates. Two exceptions, to this rule are crocuses and grape hyacinths.

Grape hyacinths are among my TOP 10 Spring bulbs. Incredibly prolific, they also carry the slight scent of grapes.
Plant varieties of bulbs in a clumps. After several years, or if flowering diminishes, divide in midsummer and make new plantings from the offspring that have formed around the 'mother' bulb.
Some bulbs thrive when divided.
If your irises did not bloom well last Spring, divide them or lift them slightly out of the ground with a fork. Disturbing them will greatly improve next year's activity.
Top dress your beds with compost prior to planting. Remember . . . it is a slow release feeding for the plants.
Mulch when completed to retain moisture, and keep the plants warm throughout the Winter.